Tammy Baldwin

In 1999, Tammy Baldwin became the first woman from the state of Wisconsin to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as the first openly gay non-incumbent elected to the House of Representatives. Her election marked a significant milestone in U.S. politics, representing progress for LGBTQ representation in government. She served Wisconsin's 2nd congressional district and focused on issues relating to healthcare, civil rights, and education during her tenure.

On November 6, 2012, Tammy Baldwin was elected to the United States Senate, becoming the first woman from Wisconsin to serve in the Senate as well as the first openly gay U.S. senator. Her historic election was groundbreaking not only for her state but also for the LGBTQ community nationwide. Baldwin's campaign focused on progressive issues, including healthcare reform, women's rights, and economic equality.

In 2015, Senator Tammy Baldwin called for an investigation into the Tomah VA Medical Center following reports of over-prescription of opioid painkillers and the related death of a U.S. Marine veteran. Baldwin's actions highlighted her commitment to veterans' healthcare and her responsiveness to issues affecting her constituents. The investigation led to increased oversight and changes in prescription practices at the facility.

On January 21, 2017, Senator Tammy Baldwin participated in and spoke at the Women's March in Washington D.C. The march was organized in response to the inauguration of President Donald Trump and aimed to advocate for women's rights and other social justice issues. Baldwin's participation underscored her support for gender equality and her continued role as an advocate for marginalized communities.

Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced the Opioid Crisis Response Act in 2018, aimed at addressing the opioid epidemic which had significantly impacted communities across the United States. This legislation sought to improve prevention, treatment, and recovery services for individuals affected by opioid addiction, marking Baldwin's commitment to public health and mental health issues. The bill was part of a broader legislative effort to combat the opioid crisis.

Following the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on September 18, 2020, Senator Tammy Baldwin spoke out to honor Ginsburg's legacy and emphasize the importance of nominating a new justice who would uphold her commitment to gender equality and civil rights. Baldwin joined fellow Democrats in calling for the delay of filling the Supreme Court vacancy until after the presidential election, highlighting her role in the judicial nomination process discussion.

Senator Tammy Baldwin was a vocal supporter of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, a legislative package aimed at providing economic relief to Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Act included direct payments to individuals, extended unemployment benefits, and funding for vaccine distribution. Baldwin's support was part of her broader advocacy for economic recovery and public health measures during the pandemic.

On June 24, 2022, after the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization effectively overturned Roe v. Wade, Senator Tammy Baldwin issued a strong condemnation of the ruling. She emphasized the decision's impact on women's rights to healthcare and autonomy, aligning with her long-standing advocacy for reproductive rights and highlighting the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the legal sphere.

In 2023, Senator Tammy Baldwin voted in favor of the PACT Act, legislation designed to expand healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances during their military service. This legislation marked another step in her continuous support and advocacy for veterans' welfare. Baldwin's vote was part of her broader legislative activities focused on enhancing veterans' healthcare and recognition of their sacrifices.